Ethics of MF

• STRENGTH:

  Does not involve dragging up the past + isn’t anxiety provoking

  Evidence: 

  • Unlike psychodynamic therapy MF does not involve attributing current issues to past even
  • Unlike CBT, does not aim to challenge + change thought princess but rather encourage awareness + acceptance of thoughts

  Explain: MF much more gentle approach to therapy

  • Avoids issues of anxiety + feelings of guilt
• WEAKNESS:

  Issues gaining valid consent

  Evidence: Key feature of MF is the practice of meditation

  • Rooted in Buddhist religion
  • Therefore people should be aware that they are engaging in form of religious practice

  Explain: Practising meditation could come into conflict with individual’s own religious or moral beliefs

  • Should be fully informed of links to Buddhism
• STRENGTH:

  Can lead to people becoming more moral in other aspects of life

  Evidence: Ruedy and Schweltzer

  • People who were skillful in MF less likely to cheat on tasks
  • More likely to uphold ethical standard in decision making 

  Explain: Suggests improving our state of mind through MF can bring benefits to our approach to life

  EXT: However, difficult to establish cause + effect, could be that people with high sense of morality start with commitment to develop levels of MF
• STRENGTH:

  Widely available so most people can engage

  Evidence: Various forms of MF accessible to all

  • Examples are such as websites, courses where people can be taught the basics + practice techniques
  • Means people can practise informally

  Explain: Strength as MF is an inclusive therapy that all people can access regardless of accessibility issues

  • Examples are such as affordability as they won't have to pay for privately  and where some people live as some areas will not hold the therapy they need
• Ethics-Conclusions

  • MF is a gentle therapy, helpful in treating psychological disorders such as…..with minimal levels of anxiety caused.
  • There may be fewer ethical issues with MF compared to other therapies such as psychoanalysis.
  • However, there are still some concerns regarding the competence of the therapist. As well as this some argue there may be concerns over informed consent with some clients with religious views that may be at odds with some of the Buddhist background to mindfulness meditation.